Hengli Heavy Industries has secured a major newbuilding package involving eight deep-sea vessels from Greek shipowners Capital and Aegean Bulk, and Norway’s Uthalden. The deal, revealed through Hengli Group’s official channels, strengthens the company’s position in the global shipbuilding market and highlights its rapidly growing orderbook since restarting operations at the former STX Dalian yard.
Newbuilding Orders Mark Strong Comeback for Aegean Bulk and Broader Market Interest
Aegean Bulk has placed an order for four 82,000 dwt Kamsarmax bulk carriers its first newbuilding commitment in nearly 15 years. These vessels were formally signed on 9 December at Hengli Shipbuilding in Dalian.
The remaining Kamsarmax unit, along with two LR2 product tankers and a Capesize bulk carrier, are attributed to Capital and Uthalden, although individual allocations were not disclosed.
This eight-ship order comes shortly after ST Songfa announced that Hengli Shipbuilding signed a contract for a 180,000 dwt Capesize vessel priced between US$70 million and US$100 million, scheduled for delivery in Q4 2027.
The streak also follows recent LR2 activity in the market, with Minerva Marine and Laskaridis Maritime ordering multiple product tankers, indicating strong demand for modern, efficient long-haul tonnage.
Hengli’s Expanding Capabilities and Ambitious Long-Term Production Plans
Hengli highlights that its LR2 design offers strong long-haul performance, high cargo capacity, and compliance with current emissions standards. Similarly, its Kamsarmax models are built to meet the toughest IMO requirements while retaining strong chartering flexibility.
The yard’s growth trajectory has been rapid since Hengli Group acquired the former STX Dalian site in 2022. Production restarted in 2023, and industry data shows more than 60 vessels currently under construction and an orderbook hovering around 170 ships with deliveries stretching to 2029.
The company also plans to scale up to annual output of approximately 150 large commercial vessels and 180 marine engines, including dual-fuel variants, positioning Hengli as a rising heavyweight in global shipbuilding.
Hengli Heavy Industries operates as a key shipbuilding arm of the privately held Hengli Group, while Guangdong Songfa Ceramics (ST Songfa) maintains ownership of Hengli Shipbuilding (Dalian) through its corporate structure.
The latest eight-vessel order underscores growing international confidence in Hengli Heavy Industries and reflects renewed investment from major shipowners. With advanced vessel designs, compliance-focused technology, and strong production ambitions, Hengli is positioning itself as a major competitor in the global shipbuilding market. Its expanding orderbook and strategic growth highlight its transformation into one of China’s most dynamic shipyards.
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Source: PORT NEWS
